Is equal pay legislation applicable across different regions?

I work for a nationwide company in the South West of England. I have learned that people performing my role in other company offices, in particular in London, are paid more than me. Do I have an equal pay claim?

Equal Pay Claims are based on sexual discrimination law. If a woman is paid less than a male comparator and there is no other explanation for the pay discrepancy other than gender, it follows that the woman has been discriminated against and should receive a salary increase and damages to place her in the same position as her male colleague.

In your case there may be other reasons for the pay differentials. It is common knowledge that the average salary in some parts of the country are lower than others, particularly London where many jobs carry a London weighting.

If your employer can show that the reason for the pay differentials is not based on gender I am afraid that you will not have a claim.    

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